Bolivia: Protests against President Louis Arce are likely to persist in the coming days; gathering in La Paz Nov. 17

Event

Opponents of President Louis Arce are likely to continue protesting in multiple cities over the coming days, as of Nov. 16. Opponents of Arce have objected to a controversial piece of legislation, Law 1386. Labour unions and other groups launched a strike Nov. 8 to pressure the government into repealing the law. Arce stated Nov. 13 that he would repeal it. Parliament discussed repealing the law Nov. 15. Some groups have indicated that related strikes and protests will cease following Arce's statement. Others have indicated that related action will continue.

La Paz
The mayor of La Paz, a member of the Together for the Call of the Peoples opposition party, announced a protest at the mayor's office in La Paz from 16:00 Nov. 17.

Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Civic Committee stated that it would continue its strike in Santa Cruz. The Independent Associations of Santa Cruz Trade Unions and the Union of Departmental Federations plan to rally at the Plan 3000 Obelisk Nov. 17.

Tarija
The Civic Committee of Tarija suspended their strike for 48 hours Nov. 15 but stated that they would resume the action if a new law is not passed that overrides Law 1386.

In the coming days, other protests may occur in Cochabamba, Sucre, and Potosi. Security forces will likely deploy to monitor and manage gatherings. Protesters may occur at major landmarks, public squares, and government buildings. Localized ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest sites. Low-level confrontations are possible between security personnel and protesters if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or if they are overly disruptive. Counter-protests by supporters of Arce are possible. Should they occur, the potential for violence between opposing groups is elevated.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Prepare for short-duration ground travel delays near all protest sites. Heed all instructions from the local authorities.